From Reykjavík: Iceland Express Circle – 6-Day Self-Drive

Exploring Iceland in just six days is ambitious, but the From Reykjavík: Iceland Express Circle – 6-Day Self-Drive offers a comprehensive snapshot of the country’s most iconic sights. Starting from Reykjavík, this tour guides you through the Golden Circle, the south coast, Vatnajökull National Park, the East Fjords, and North Iceland, making it ideal for travelers eager to see Iceland’s highlights at a comfortable pace. The tour is rated 4.7 by Snæland Travel, reflecting its popularity and solid quality, especially for those who prefer the flexibility of driving themselves.

While the itinerary is packed with must-see destinations like Jökulsárlón, Gullfoss, Lake Mývatn, and Reykjanes Peninsula, it balances these with comfortable accommodations ranging from guesthouses to four-star hotels. The self-drive format offers independence, but travelers should be prepared with a valid international driver’s license and a sense of adventure. This tour suits those who appreciate freedom combined with expertly curated stops, although it may be a bit brisk for travelers seeking a more leisurely or immersive experience.

Key Points

• Self-drive tour lasting 6 days, covering Iceland’s key sights
• Rated 4.7 by Snæland Travel, indicating high quality and reliability
• Starts in Reykjavík with pickup at Keflavík Airport and explores the Golden Circle, south coast, Vatnajökull, East Fjords, and Lake Mývatn
• Comfort options available, including 4-star hotels in Reykjavík and countryside accommodations
• Includes visits to major waterfalls like Seljalandsfoss, Skógafoss, Goðafoss, and Dettifoss
• Journey through glaciers, geothermal areas, and coastal villages, with highlights like Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon and Diamond Beach
• Practical info: Rental car pickup at the airport, with shuttle service, and a private group experience
• Suitable for ages 21 and over with a valid driver’s license
• The tour offers full flexibility with free cancellation and pay later options

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Reykjavik and the Reykjanes Peninsula Start

This tour begins at Keflavík International Airport, where the rental car shuttle conveniently takes visitors to the Blue Car Rental delivery office within 4 minutes walking distance. After collecting your rental car, the journey starts with exploring the volcanic lava fields of Reykjanes Peninsula. The first night is spent in Reykjavík, Iceland’s lively capital, giving travelers the chance to enjoy the city’s vibrant nightlife, museums, and dining options.

Starting in Reykjavík provides a comfortable base and a chance to acclimate before hitting the road. The proximity of the airport makes this tour accessible for visitors arriving on international flights, and the flexible meeting point ensures minimal hassle.

The Golden Circle and South Coast Highlights

Driving the Golden Circle is one of the tour’s key highlights. You visit Þingvellir National Park, where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet, offering geological marvels and historical significance. The Geysir geothermal area is a spectacle of erupting hot springs, with Strokkur geyser bubbling to life every few minutes. The Gullfoss waterfall impresses with its massive two-tier cascade, creating a dramatic display of nature’s power.

Continuing south, the tour stops at Seljalandsfoss, renowned for the pathway behind the waterfall, providing fantastic photo opportunities. Next is Skógafoss, famous for its sheer water drop and the rainbows that often form at its base. The day concludes in Vík í Mýrdal, where travelers can stroll black sand beaches and admire basalt columns. The day’s pace allows time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

Exploring Vatnajökull National Park and the East Fjords

The journey into Vatnajökull National Park offers an encounter with Iceland’s largest glacier. The hike to Svartifoss, framed by striking basalt columns, is a highlight for nature lovers. Nearby Jökulsárlón, the iconic ice lagoon filled with floating icebergs, provides surreal scenery. Just across the road, Diamond Beach glitters with ice chunks washed ashore, offering remarkable photographic moments.

Traveling through the East Fjords reveals a different side of Iceland, with charming fishing villages and rugged coastlines. The day ends in Egilsstaðir, a hub of natural beauty and tranquility, perfect for relaxing after a day of scenic drives.

Lake Mývatn and North Iceland Attractions

In North Iceland, the tour features the powerful Dettifoss waterfall, Europe’s most forceful waterfall, showcasing nature’s raw energy. The Lake Mývatn area is a geothermal wonderland, with bubbling mud pots at Námaskarð geothermal area and the volcanic crater Hverfjall. The Dimmuborgir lava formations offer a surreal landscape that feels almost otherworldly.

Visitors may choose to unwind at the Mývatn Nature Baths, soaking in hot waters while enjoying views across the geothermal fields. The tour also visits Goðafoss, known as the “Waterfall of the Gods,” adding a historic and scenic stop before reaching the bustling Akureyri.

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West Iceland’s Hot Springs and Waterfalls

From Akureyri, the tour explores Skagafjörður, an area famous for horse breeding and early Icelandic history. Continuing west, the stops at Deildartunguhver hot spring and Reykholt offer insights into Icelandic culture and geothermal activity. The Hraunfossar and Barnafoss waterfalls provide striking scenes of water streaming through lava fields and rugged rocks.

Returning to Reykjavík in the evening, travelers have the chance to explore the city’s cultural venues like Harpa Concert Hall, enjoy Icelandic cuisine, or simply relax after a busy week of sightseeing.

Practicalities of the Self-Drive Format

The tour’s self-drive format allows travelers to set their own pace with a rental car. The private group arrangement ensures an intimate experience, with all accommodations categorized as standard, including guesthouses and 3-star hotels, and comfort options in Reykjavík and countryside hotels.

The itinerary is designed for flexibility, but travelers should be comfortable with a busy schedule and some driving each day. The pickup process at the airport is straightforward, with shuttle services running every 15 minutes from 06:00 to 18:00.

Accommodation Options and Comfort Level

Accommodation is categorized into standard and comfort options. Standard accommodations include guesthouses and 3-star hotels, mainly in key towns and villages. Comfort options include four-star hotels, especially in Reykjavík and select countryside locations, providing a higher level of comfort for those who prefer it.

All rooms are standard, ensuring consistency across the trip. This flexibility allows travelers to choose accommodation that best fits their preferences and budget, while still enjoying Iceland’s comfortable hospitality.

The Experience Provider and Booking Flexibility

Snæland Travel, rated 4.7, organizes this tour, emphasizing quality and customer satisfaction. The booking process includes free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, and the reserve now, pay later option keeps plans flexible.

This private group experience is suitable for travelers over 21 years old with a valid driver’s license. The tour is designed with practical needs in mind, offering a reliable and well-organized way to explore Iceland in a compact timeframe.

Final Thoughts on the Iceland Express Circle Tour

This 6-day self-drive tour provides an efficient way to see Iceland’s top sights without sacrificing comfort or flexibility. Its well-structured itinerary covers landscapes from waterfalls and glaciers to geothermal areas and coastal villages, making it an excellent choice for travelers with limited time.

The high rating of 4.7 reflects the tour’s overall quality, but the quick pacing may be challenging for some seeking a more relaxed journey. It’s best suited for those appreciating a curated, efficient overview with the freedom of self-driving.

For a focused, scenic adventure that hits the highlights, this tour from Snæland Travel offers a dependable, enjoyable way to experience Iceland’s natural beauty.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The tour includes the rental car and accommodations categorized as standard or comfort, depending on the package selected.

How do I meet the tour organizer at the airport?
After customs, the car rental shuttle is located outside the arrivals hall next to Flybus Parking. The shuttle runs every 15 minutes from 06:00 to 18:00 daily.

Is this tour suitable for drivers under 21?
No, drivers under 21 years old are not eligible to participate.

What documents do I need to bring?
A valid international driver’s license is required to drive the rental car.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, and the reserve now, pay later option allows flexible booking.

What kind of accommodations are included?
The tour offers guesthouses and 3-star hotels for standard options, with 4-star hotels in Reykjavík and select countryside locales for the comfort option.

Are meals included?
Meal details are not specified in the data; travelers should plan to purchase meals during the trip.

What is the duration of the tour?
The entire tour lasts 6 days, with detailed days of travel and sightseeing.

What makes this tour different from others?
The self-drive format combined with a carefully curated itinerary covering Iceland’s top attractions makes this tour flexible and efficient for travelers eager to see Iceland’s highlights independently.

Is the tour suitable for families or large groups?
The tour is organized as a private group, making it more suitable for smaller groups or families looking for a personalized experience.

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